Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Evernote, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
My experience started with a recruiter interaction that didn’t move as quickly or clearly as it should have. After an initial phone interview, it took almost three weeks to schedule the next round. With no updates and no response, I had to send follow-up emails just to get a schedule, and even then the recruiter replied with it almost a week later. I also felt like I wasn’t given enough information about what to expect for the first round.
After I was referred after a director of engineering reviewed my profile, the process started with an HR conversation about my current career and interest. Not long after that, I had a LeetCode-style medium problem scheduled as a coding round.
Candidates frequently reported mixed experiences with recruiter responsiveness and clarity, with some experiencing delays and a lack of updates throughout the process. This inconsistency can lead to frustration and uncertainty about the next steps.
The technical screening typically includes a mix of coding challenges, debugging exercises, and system design questions, with a focus on real-world problem-solving rather than purely theoretical questions. Candidates should be prepared for both live coding and take-home assignments.
The onsite interviews are generally structured and can be intensive, often lasting several hours with multiple back-to-back rounds. Candidates should expect a variety of technical evaluations and behavioral interviews to assess both skills and cultural fit.
Candidates described the interview difficulty as variable, with some facing challenging problems under tight time constraints, which can lead to a sense of pressure. It's important to manage expectations regarding the intensity and nature of the questions asked.
Behavioral interviews often focus on cultural fit and collaboration, with interviewers looking for alignment with company values. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their past experiences and how they relate to the company culture.
Many candidates expressed disappointment regarding the lack of feedback or closure after the interview process, with some feeling left in the dark about their performance and the reasons for not receiving an offer. It's advisable to seek clarity and follow up if feedback is not provided.
